Stress
We commonly use the word ‘stress’ to mean the feeling of pressure we can experience when problems or demands start to feel too much.
A moderate level of stress can be helpful in situations where we need to perform well such as working to a deadline or competing in a competition. It can help us feel alert and motivated. When the level of stress starts to feel overwhelming, however, it can have a negative impact on our physical and emotional wellbeing.
There are many things you can do to help alleviate your stress. Scroll down to find out more information on this topic.
The effects of stress
Sometimes stress gets on top of you, especially when the situation causing the stress goes on and on and the problems just seem to keep building up. You can feel trapped, as if there is no way out and no solution to your problems. If you feel like this, it is important to get help.
Stress can affect different people in different ways. Stress can affect your body and your feelings. Some of the effects are listed below:
Effects on your body:
- feeling tired
- having difficulty sleeping
- going off your food
- stomach aches
- headaches
- aches and pains in your neck and shoulders.
Effects on your feelings:
- feeling sad
- being irritable, losing your temper easily
- finding it hard to keep your mind on work
Tips to deal with stress
Top tips to deal with stress and burnout
Split up big tasks
If a task seems overwhelming and difficult to start, try breaking it down into easier chunks, and give yourself credit for completing them.
Allow yourself some positivity
Take time to think about the good things in your life. Each day, consider what went well and try to list 3 things you’re thankful for.
Challenge your thoughts
The way we think affects the way we feel. Watch the video ‘Reframing Unhelpful Thoughts’ at the bottom of this page to learn how to challenge unhelpful thoughts.
Be more active
Being active can help you to burn off nervous energy. It will not make your stress disappear, but it can make it less intense. Find out more in the Self-Care Health Body section
Talk to someone
Trusted friends, family and colleagues, or contacting a helpline, can help us when we are struggling. Watch our video for more ideas. Find out more in the Talk to Someone section
Plan ahead
Planning out any upcoming stressful days or events – a to-do list, the journey you need to do, things you need to take – can really help.
Video Tips for Stress
You can also find out more about managing stress in the Self Care section
Whatever you do, Don’t suffer in silence! You can always reach out and talk.
